Stewart to stand down from BRDC

Published on Tuesday 24 January 2006 00:31

SIR Jackie Stewart announced yesterday that he is to stand down as president of the British Racing Drivers' Club in the spring.

The three-times world champion from Scotland has headed the BRDC, which owns Silverstone, since 2000 but has decided not to seek re-election at its annual general meeting this spring.

"By spring this year I will have been president for six years during an exciting and challenging time for the club," said 66-year-old Stewart, who fought a bitter battle for control of the BRDC last year with Ray Bellm. "During my time as president we have fought many battles, not least almost annually the one to retain the British Grand Prix."

The BRDC last year secured the British Grand Prix until 2009 and is now planning an extensive refurbishment of Silverstone. One of Stewart's last acts as president will be to help shape the future of the circuit, with exact details of the revamp expected soon.

Reassuring the BRDC he is still prepared to help out if needed, Stewart added: "I will always be happy to offer advice and assistance to what is the most prestigious motor racing club in the world."